Microphone Stand Having Articulating Shaft

ABSTRACT

A stand includes a base, a first tube coupled to the base and extending therefrom, the first tube defining a first bore having an opening at an end of the tube opposite the base, and a second tube, a portion of which is received in the first bore such that the second tube and the first tube form a telescoping relationship, the second tube comprising a first section and a second section, the first section and second section being connected via a clutch, the clutch being configured to enable articulation of the second section relative to the first section about the clutch. The clutch has an outer cross section that is configured to be received in the first bore when the first section is coaxial with the second section.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an adjustable stand and morespecifically to a boom-less stand, such as a microphone stand, with anarticulating shaft providing for a microphone position to be moved in aplane.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional stands typically include a base, a shaft and a boom arm sothat an object (e.g., microphone, sheet music support) attached to theboom can be positioned sufficiently far from the shaft along a plane.This allows, for example, a guitar player to place the microphonedirectly in front of his mouth without having the upright portion(shaft) of the stand be in the way of the guitar. In some cases, theshaft is made up of telescoping tubes and an adjustment collar, whichallows the overall height of the shaft to be adjusted.

However, a major drawback of the traditional stand involves the boomarm. The boom arm is exposed from the shaft and accordingly occupies alarge amount of space. The retention and rotation assembly that attachesthe boom to the shaft projects beyond the contour of the shaft andoccupies a substantial amount of space. As a result, the boom andretention and rotation assembly obstruct a clear view of the performerstanding behind the stand. Another drawback of the traditional standconcerns the tedious procedure of adjusting the boom relative to theshaft. That is, the retention and rotation assembly requires locking andunlocking (e.g., loosening and tightening a fastener) in order to adjustthe angle of the boom relative to the shaft.

The traditional stand also lacks the capability of being easily arranged(e.g., collapsed, folded up) into a space-efficient and transportableconfiguration. For example, in order to reduce the amount of space thestand occupies along a plane during transport, one must unlock theretention and rotation assembly and disconnect the boom from the shaftinto two separate parts. Such disassembly increases the chance that oneor more parts may be lost during transport.

Several microphone stands have been developed to address some of thedrawbacks related to boom arms. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,032 toKuo discloses a foldable stand assembly for microphones. The assembly isdesigned with a microphone holder rod mounted above a telescoping shaftusing a pivotal seat mechanism. The pivotal seat mechanism includes aseat secured to an upper end of the shaft, a connecting block connectedto a lower end of the holder rod, a pin and tension knob for adjustingthe inclined status of the holder rod, and a clamping sleeve forsecuring the holder rod to the connecting block. However, the microphonestand of Kuo fails to minimize view obstruction due to the overall sizeof the pivotal seat mechanism. The stand does not provide aspace-efficient and transportable configuration due to the protrudingpin and knob as well as the pivotal seat mechanism's inability to fullycollapse into the shaft. Further, the microphone stand of Kuo requiresmore complex components and procedures for arranging the stand in atransportable configuration. Specifically, to collapse the stand, a usermust: (1) unlock the clamping sleeve of the pivotal seat mechanism; (2)shift the holder rod so that its lower end is disposed within theclamping sleeve; (3) relock the clamping sleeve; (4) rotate the holderrod into alignment with the shaft by means of loosening the tension knoband pin; (5) unlock a shaft clamping sleeve so that an upper tube of theshaft is telescopically received within a lower tube of the shaft; (6)unlock the clamping sleeve of the pivotal seat mechanism; (7) shift theholder rod downward so that its lower end is telescopically receivedwithin the shaft; (8) relock the clamping sleeve of the pivotal seatmechanism to secure the holder rod relative to the upper tube of theshaft; and (9) relock the shaft clamping sleeve to secure the upper tubeof the shaft relative to the lower tube of the shaft.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,594,371 to Wetzel et al. is directed to an articulatedmicrophone boom assembly. The boom assembly includes a first hollowcylindrical telescoping boom, which is attached to a hollow hingeproviding articulation with a second hollow cylindrical telescopingboom. The hinge includes a locking mechanism to fix the first boom atseveral predetermined angles in relation to the second boom. However,the hinge is not integrated fully within either the first boom or thesecond boom. The microphone stand of Wetzel also fails to provide aspace-efficient and transportable configuration. For example, the hingedoes not collapse into the first boom. Wetzel instead teaches that thehinge allows for the second boom to be disposed alongside and parallelto the first boom. Such a configuration still does not reduce the amountof space the entire boom assembly occupies along a plane. Moreover, thehinge comprises a pawl which is spring-loaded to engage and disengageone of several defined detent slots. This hinge mechanism can onlyprovide predetermined articulated angles and lacks flexibility inadjusting the first boom relative to the second boom at any angle withina given range. The hinge mechanism requires locking and unlocking thelocking mechanism in order to articulate the first boom, and thus doesnot allow for quick and easy adjustment.

While some microphone stands may provide some improvements overtraditional stands, they still suffer from several disadvantages,including requiring a boom arm and a complex retention and rotationassembly. Another such disadvantage is the difficulty involved inadjusting the angle of the retention and rotation assembly. Another suchdisadvantage is the view obstruction caused by the boom arm and theretention and rotation assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An objective of the present invention is to remedy the above problemsassociated with stands with boom arms. The present invention providesfor adjustment of the position of an attached object (e.g., microphone,sheet music support) along a plane without requiring a boom arm.

It is an additional objective of the present invention to provide astand which provides adjustment in the inclination angle of the attachedobject (and a top/distal portion of the shaft) relative to abottom/proximal portion of the shaft without use of a tension clutch,such as a tension knob and pin. Further, it is also an objective toprovide a pivot mechanism which is easily adjustable and can securelyfix the attached object relative to the bottom/proximal portion of theshaft and/or base at any inclination angle.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a stand thatcan be arranged into a space-efficient and transportable configuration.

These and other objectives are achieved by providing a stand having ashaft with a pivot-adjustable clutch integrated into the shaft. Thepivot-adjustable clutch provides for an upper portion of the shaft to berotated relative to a lower portion of the shaft at any angle within arange. For example, by means of the pivot-adjustable clutch, a user caneasily grab the top portion of the shaft and pivot it towards oneself tofind a comfortable angle for his/her application without having toloosen and then retighten any knobs, pins, screws, or bolts. Thepivot-adjustable clutch is tight enough to firmly hold the top portionof the shaft, with the weight of an object (e.g., microphone) attachedthereto, in a stationary manner after an angle adjustment is made.

The incorporation of the clutch into the shaft eliminates the need for aboom arm and thus allows for elimination of the boom arm. Theincorporation of the clutch into the shaft also reduces the size (e.g.,width) of the stand, thereby decreasing obstruction of the performer andincreasing line of sight for viewers.

Further objectives are achieved by providing a stand having a base, afirst tube coupled to the base and extending therefrom, the first tubedefining a first bore having an opening at a distal end of the firsttube opposite the base, and a second tube, a portion of which isreceived in the first bore such that the second tube and the first tubeform a telescoping relationship. The second tube has a first section anda second section, the first section and second section being connectedvia a clutch, the clutch being configured to enable articulation of thesecond section relative to the first section about the clutch. Theclutch has an outer cross section that is configured to be received inthe first bore when the first section is coaxial with the secondsection.

In some embodiments, the clutch is made up of a female component havingopposing flanges and a male component having a protruding post. Theprotruding post is coupled between the opposing flanges via a fastenerto facilitate articulation of the male component relative to the femalecomponent.

Other objectives are achieved by providing a stand having a base, afirst tube coupled to the base and extending therefrom, the first tubedefining a first bore having an opening at a distal end of the firsttube opposite the base, and a second tube, a portion of which isreceived in the first bore such that the second tube and the first tubeform a telescoping relationship, the second tube having a first sectionand a section second section, the first section and the second sectionbeing connected via a clutch, the clutch being configured to enablearticulation of the second section relative to the first section aboutthe clutch. The clutch has an outer cross section that is configured tobe received in the first bore when the first section is coaxial with thesecond section, wherein the clutch includes a first component coupled tothe first section of the second tube and a second component coupled tothe second section of the second tube, both components having a L-shapedmount that engage one another.

Still, other objectives are achieved by providing a stand having a base,a first tube coupled to the base and extending therefrom, the first tubedefining a bore with an opening at a distal end of the first tubeopposite the base, a second tube, a portion of which is received in thefirst bore such that the second tube and the first tube form atelescoping relationship, and a clutch coupling a proximal end of thefirst tube to the base, the clutch being configured to enable pivotingof the first tube relative to the base and to secure the first tube atan adjusted angle relative to the base.

In some embodiments, the clutch is made up of a female component havingopposing flanges (U-shaped mount) and a male component having aprotruding post. The protruding post of the male component is coupledbetween the opposing flanges of the female component via a fastener tofacilitate articulation of the male component relative to the femalecomponent. The female component may be attached to the base while themale component is attached to the first tube. In other embodiments, theclutch includes a first component coupled to the base and a secondcomponent coupled to the first tube, both components having an L-shapedmount that engage one another.

Although the present invention has been described as a stand for holdingan object, such as a microphone or sheet music support, it can alsofunction as a boom arm, microphone pole, microphone accessory, speakerstand or a percussion stand holding drum hardware and/or percussioninstruments.

Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of example, the featuresin accordance with embodiments of the invention. The summary is notintended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely bythe claims attached thereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boom microphone stand in accordancewith prior art.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a stand, such as a microphone stand, with anarticulating shaft in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention in a coaxial state.

FIG. 2B is a side view of the stand of FIG. 2A in a rotated state.

FIG. 3A is a side view of a clutch of the stand of FIG. 2A in accordancewith one embodiment, the clutch being in an angled position.

FIG. 3B is a side view of a clutch of the stand of FIG. 2A in accordancewith one embodiment, the clutch being in coaxial position.

FIG. 4 is a side view of an adjustment collar and a clutch of the standof FIG. 2A.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of components of the clutch of FIGS. 3A-3Bin a disassembled configuration.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of components of the clutch of FIGS. 3A-3Bin an assembled configuration.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a clutch of the stand of FIG. 2A inaccordance with another embodiment, the clutch being in an angledposition.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a stand, such as a microphone stand,with an articulating shaft in accordance with another embodiment of thepresent invention in a state perpendicular to a base.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the stand of FIG. 8 in a rotated state.

It should be understood that throughout the drawings, correspondingreference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description illustrates the invention by way ofexample, not by way of limitation of the principles of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “articulate” and “articulation” includes theacts of actuating, rotating, and/or pivoting. The terms “articulate”,“actuate”, “rotate” and “pivot” are used interchangeably herein, and areintended to have the same meaning, and thus encompass the process ofturning, and causing to turn, around on or as if on an axis or centerpoint.

FIG. 1 illustrates a boom stand 2, and more specifically a boommicrophone stand 2 (also referred to simply as a stand). The stand 2comprises a base 4. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the base 4comprises an adjustable tripod leg configuration. However, a person ofordinary skill in the art will understand that other types of bases maybe employed, for example a weighted disc.

The stand 2 includes a lower tube 10 and an upper tube 20. A lower endof the lower tube 10 is coupled to the base 4. The lower tube 10 extendsalong an axis between the lower end and an upper end and has a circularcross section and a bore extending therethrough. The upper tube 20defines an outer cross section such that the upper tube 20 can bereceived in the bore extending through the lower tube 10 in atelescoping fashion.

The stand 2 includes an adjustment collar 6 between the lower tube 10and the upper tube 20. The adjustment collar 6 can be biased to an openposition by rotating the adjustment collar in a first direction relativeto the lower tube 10 about the axis of the lower tube. In the openposition, the upper tube 20 can be translated relative to the lower tube10. The adjustment collar 6 can be biased to a closed position byrotating the adjustment collar in a second direction relative to thelower tube 10, thereby fixing the position of the lower tube 10 relativeto the upper tube 20. In this manner, it is possible to adjust and fixthe height of the stand 2.

A retention and rotation assembly 14 is coupled to an upper end of theupper tube 20. Such a retention and rotation assembly is disclosed inpending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/055,312 to Hennessey et al.,however, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatdifferent assemblies may be used. A boom 30 is slideably received in abore 15 extending through the retention and rotation assembly 14. Theboom 30 extends along an axis between a first end and a second end. Aclip 32 is coupled to the first end of the boom 30 and a counterweight34 is coupled to the second end. In some cases, the boom 30 has a rockerlug 36 which allows for a portion of the boom to bend. The position ofthe boom 30 relative to the bore 15 can be fixed and released using aclutch 16 in the same manner as described above in relation to theadjustment collar 6 between the lower tube 10 and the upper tube 20. Theretention and rotation assembly 14 further allows the boom 30 to berotated relative to the upper tube 20 about an axis substantiallyperpendicular to the axis of the upper tube 20. In this manner, theangle of the boom 30, and as a result the position of an object (e.g.,microphone) coupled thereon, can be adjusted relative to the upper tube20. The boom 30 extends the position of the microphone away from thebase 4 and tubes 10, 20, so as to provide an area of open space underthe microphone for playing a guitar or the like.

A disadvantage of the stand 2 shown in FIG. 1 is that it requires theretention and rotation assembly 14 and the boom 30 to facilitatepositioning of the microphone away from the base 4 and the tubes 10, 20.This increases the cost of manufacturing and the complexity of use.

Another disadvantage of the stand 2 shown in FIG. 1 is that a positionof the boom 30 cannot be incrementally adjusted without locking andunlocking the retention and rotation assembly 14. If the boom 30 is letgo while the assembly 14 is in an open/unlocked position, the boom willfall and fail to maintain its position relative to the upper tube 20.Similarly, when the assembly 14 is locked, it is not possible to adjustthe angle of the boom 30 relative to the upper tube 20. As a result, itis difficult to make quick incremental adjustments to the position ofthe boom.

Still, another disadvantage of the stand 2 shown in FIG. 1 is that thesize (e.g., width) of the retention and rotation assembly 14 is greaterthan the inside diameter of the bore in lower tube 10, therebypreventing the retention and rotation assembly 14 from being received inthe bore in lower tube 10.

These and other disadvantages are overcome by a stand having anarticulating upper tube. An embodiment of this new type of stand witharticulating shaft is illustrated in FIGS. 2-9. These figures, inparticular, show a microphone stand as an exemplary embodiment of thestand according to the present invention.

In reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a stand 102 in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The stand 102comprises a base (see for example base 4 in FIG. 1). The base maycomprise an adjustable tripod leg configuration or weighted disc. Alower tube 110 extends from the base and is coupled to an upper tube120. The lower tube 110 extends along an axis between a lower (proximal)end and an upper (distal) end and has a circular cross section. Thelower tube 110 defines a bore extending therethrough. The upper tube 120defines an outer cross section such that the upper tube 120 can bereceived in the bore extending through the lower tube 110 in atelescoping fashion.

The stand 102 includes an adjustment collar 106 between the lower tube110 and the upper tube 120. For example, the adjustment collar 106 isdisposed at the upper (distal) end of the lower tube 110. The adjustmentcollar 106 can be biased to an open position by rotating the adjustmentcollar 106 in a first direction relative to the lower tube 110 about theaxis of the lower tube. In the open position, the upper tube 120 can betranslated relative to the lower tube 110. The adjustment collar 106 canbe biased to a closed position by rotating the adjustment collar 106 ina second direction relative to the lower tube 110, thereby fixing theposition of the lower tube 110 relative to the upper tube 120. In thismanner, it is possible to adjust and fix the height of the stand 102.

An attachment clip 132 (e.g., microphone clip) is coupled to an upperend of the upper tube 120 via a clutch 114. A microphone 133 is receivedin the clip 132 and is rotatable relative to upper tube 120 via theclutch 114 about an axis perpendicular to the upper tube 120.

Unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2through 7 does not include a boom. Instead, the stand 102 facilitatespositioning of the microphone 133 away from the base and tubes 110, 120by employing an articulating upper tube 120, as illustrated in FIG. 2B.The upper tube 120 comprises a first section 122 and a second section124. The first section 122 is connected to the second section 124 via aclutch 140 that facilitates articulation of the second section 124relative to the first section 122.

The clutch 140 enables rotation of the second section 124 of the uppertube 120 relative to the first section 122 of the upper tube 120. Forexample, in reference to FIG. 2A, the axis of the first section 122 iscoaxial with the axis of the second section 124. In reference to FIG.2B, the second section 124 has been rotated relative to the firstsection 122 about the clutch 140 so that an axis of the second section124 bisects the axis of the first section 122 at, for example,approximately 45 degrees. In this manner, the position of the microphoneis extended away from the base, the lower tube 110, and first section122 of the upper tube 120. The clutch is configured to provide for pivotadjustment to any angle within a given range. In some embodiments, theclutch 140 is a friction clutch.

FIGS. 3A and 3B further illustrate the clutch 140 and the articulationof the second section 124 relative to the first section 122 about theclutch 140. FIG. 4 illustrates that the clutch 140 is configured so thatit has an outside cross section that can be received in the bore of thelower tube 110. In this manner, it is possible to telescope the clutch140 into the bore of the lower tube 110 when the first section 122 andthe second section 124 are in coaxial state, as is illustrated in FIG.4.

In reference to FIG. 5, the components of a clutch 140 in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention are shown. The clutch 140comprises a female section 150 and a male section 160. The femalesection 150 is coupled to the first section 122 of the upper tube 120.In the embodiment shown, the female section 150 defines a post 152 beingreceivable in a bore defined by the first section 122. In someembodiments of the present invention, the female section 150 of theclutch 140 may be integral with the first section 122 of the upper tube120. Likewise, the male section 160 is coupled to the second section 124of the upper tube 120. In the embodiment shown, the male section 160defines a post 162 that is receivable in a bore defined by the secondsection 124. In some embodiments of the present invention, the malesection 160 of the clutch 140 may be integral with the second section124 of the upper tube 120. It should be understood that in someembodiments of the present invention, the male section 160 is coupled tothe first section 122 of the upper tube 120 and the female section 150is coupled to the second section 124 of the upper tube 120.

The female section 150 defines a U-shaped mount on an end opposite thepost 152. The U-shaped mount comprises a first flange 154 extendingupward from the female section 150 and a second flange 156 extendingupward from the female section 150. The first flange 154 and the secondflange 156 are substantially parallel and define a slotted openingtherebetween. The top of each flange 154, 156 comprises a stop surface155, 157 that is configured to limit the extent to which the malesection 160 can rotate relative to the female section 150. The firstflange 154 comprises a through hole 158 and the second flange 156comprises a threaded hole 159. The holes are configured such that athreaded fastener 170 can be received through the through hole 158 andthreaded into the threaded hole 159. The through hole 158 also includesa recess so that the head of the fastener 170 may be seated therein. Therecess of the through hole 158 allows for the head of the fastener 170to be flush with or disposed below an outer surface of the first flange154 upon inserting the fastener 170 into holes 158, 159 (see FIG. 6).

The male section 160 defines a protruding post 164 opposite the post162. The protruding post 164 extends upward from a center of the malesection 160. The protruding post 164 is configured to be receivedbetween the opposing flanges 154, 156 of the female section 150. Theprotruding post 164 comprises a through hole 165 that aligns with therespective holes 158, 159 of the opposing flanges 154, 156. It ispreferred that the through hole 165 of the protruding post 164 has asmooth surface, and is not threaded, to facilitate articulation of themale section 160 relative to the female section 150

The protruding post 164 is received between the opposing flanges 154,156 and is coupled thereto by the threaded fastener 170. The threadedfastener 170 is inserted through the hole 158 in the first flange,through hole 165 in the protruding post 164, and received in threadedengagement in the hole 159 in the second flange, as illustrated in FIG.6 (note, FIG. 6 shows the clutch 140 in an upside orientation). Byincreasing the tension on the fastener 170, the opposing flanges aredrawn together causing a clamping force on the protruding post 164. Inone embodiment of the present invention, the fastener is tightened sothat the flanges 154, 156 compress the protruding post 164 to an extentthat the angle of the second section 124 relative to the first section122 can be adjusted. After an adjustment, the compression of theflanges—i.e., the friction between the flanges and the protrudingpost—maintains the position of the second section 124 relative the firstsection 122 without further adjustment or tightening of the fastener170. This is true even when a microphone or other weighted object isconnected to the remote end of the second section 124.

In reference to FIG. 5, the top of each flange 154, 156 comprises a stopsurface 155, 157. The stop surfaces 155, 157 are configured to limit theextent of articulation of the second section 124 relative to the firstsection 122. The male section 160 comprises a radial protrusion 169 at abottom area of the protruding post 164. The outer contour (circularcross section) of the radial protrusion coincides with the outer contour(circular cross section) that the opposing flanges of the femalecomponent collectively form. Accordingly, when the female section of theclutch 140 is coaxial with the male section, a smooth transition isprovided between the outer contours/surfaces of the female and malesections. As articulation reaches a maximum designed extent (e.g.,maximum angle), the radial protrusion contacts the stop surfaces 155,157, limiting the articulation thereof. It is preferred thatarticulation is limited to 45 degrees past vertical to ensure balance ofthe stand 102. The protruding post 164 has a relief 168 formed thereinto further facilitate articulation of the second section 124 relative tothe first section 122, and more specifically the male section 160relative to the female section 150. In some embodiments of the presentinvention, the insides surfaces of the flanges 154, 156 and interfacingoutside surfaces of the protruding post 164 define a relief pattern soas to inhibit unwanted slippage of the second section 124 relative tothe first section 122.

In reference to FIG. 7, a clutch 240 in accordance with a secondembodiment of the present invention is shown. The clutch 240 comprises abottom section 250 and a top section 260. The bottom section 250 iscoupled to the first section 122 of the upper tube 120. Likewise, thetop section 260 is coupled to the second section 124 of the upper tube120. It should be understood that in some embodiments of the presentinvention the top section 260 is coupled to the first section 122 of theupper tube 120 and the bottom section 250 is coupled to the secondsection 124 of the upper tube 120.

The bottom section 250 defines an L-shaped mount. The L-shaped mountcomprises a flange 254 that extends upward from the bottom section 250and the L-shaped mount defines a flat surface 256 that is perpendicularto the flange 254. In similar respect, the top section 260 defines anL-shaped mount that is configured to mate with the L-shaped mount of thebottom section 250. The L-shaped mount of the top section 260 comprisesa flange 264 that extends from the top section 260 and the L-shapedmount defines a flat surface 266 that is perpendicular to the flange264.

The top of the flange 254 of the bottom section 250 comprises a stopsurface that is configured to engage the flat surface 266 of the topsection 260 to limit the extent to which the top section 260 can rotateor articulate relative to the bottom section 250. In some embodiments,the top of the flange 264 of the top section 260 also comprises a stopsurface that is configured to limit the extent to which the bottomsection 250 can rotate or articulate relative to the top section 260.The flange 254 comprises a through hole (not shown in FIG. 7). The holeis configured such that a rod or a fastener can be received in thethrough hole. The flange 264 similarly comprises a through hole 268. Thehole 268 is configured such that the rod or fastener can be receivedtherein. In some embodiments, one or both of the through holes of thefirst and second sections may be a threaded hole, and the fastener maybe a threaded fastener. To simplify manufacturing of the clutch, theL-shaped mount of the top section 260 can have the same configuration(e.g., shape) as the L-shaped mount of the bottom section 250.

The L-shaped mount of the bottom section 250 mates with the L-shapedmount of the top section 260 as shown in FIG. 7. A rod or similarfastener is received in the through hole in each flange 254, 264 so asto facilitate rotation of the top section 260 relative to the bottomsection 250 and to facilitate retention of the flanges relative to eachother. An inner surface of the flange 254 is held in communication with(e.g., contacts) an inner surface of the flange 264 via the fastener(e.g., fastener 170). By increasing friction between the surfaces of theflanges 254, 264 using the fastener, the amount of force required toarticulate the top section 260 relative to the bottom section 250 may beincreased (or decreased). In the embodiment shown, the friction can beincreased so that the friction between the surfaces maintains theposition of the top section 260 relative the bottom section 250 withoutfurther adjustment or support. This is true even when a microphone orother weighted object is connected to the remote end of the upper tube124. Like the clutch 140, the clutch 240 is able to maintain a set anglebetween the first section 122 and the second section 124 withoutadjustment or tightening of the fastener. The embodiment shown in FIG. 7includes similar stop surfaces as those shown in FIG. 5 to limit theextent of articulation of the second section of the upper tube relativeto the first section of the upper tube.

In reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, a stand 302 in accordance to anotherembodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The stand 302exhibits some of the same features of the stand 102 in FIGS. 2A and 2B.The stand 302 includes a base 304, which is shown as a weighted disc.However, the base 304 may be an adjustable tripod leg configuration. Thestand 302 also includes a shaft, which is formed by a lower tube 310 andan upper tube (see for example upper tube 120 in FIGS. 2A and 2B). Thelower tube 310 has a bore which extends therethrough. An opening to thebore is provided at the distal end of the lower tube 310. The upper tubeis dimensioned such that its outer cross section corresponds to the size(e.g., diameter) of the bore in the lower tube 310. Accordingly, theupper tube can be received through the opening into the bore of thelower tube 310 in a telescoping fashion.

The stand 302 includes an adjustment collar (see collar 106 in FIGS. 2Aand 2B) between the lower tube 310 and the upper tube. The adjustmentcollar can be biased to an open position by rotating the collar in afirst direction relative to the lower tube 310 about the axis of thelower tube, or to a closed positioned by rotating the collar in a seconddirection opposite the first direction. The collar configured in theclosed position fixes the position of the lower tube 310 relative to theupper tube. The adjustment collar provides the ability to increase ordecrease the height of the stand 302.

The lower tube 310 is coupled to the base 304 and extends therefrom. Inparticular, a clutch 340 couples the lower tube 310 to the base 304 andfacilitates articulation of the lower tube 310 relative to the base 304.FIG. 8 shows the axis of the lower tube 310 is perpendicular to the base304 and more so at the point where the lower tube is coupled to thebase. In reference to FIG. 9, the lower tube 310 has been rotatedrelative to the base 304 about the clutch 340 so that the axis of thelower tube is non-perpendicular to the base, for example 75 degreesbetween the base and the axis of the lower tube. The clutch 340 isconfigured to provide pivot adjustment of the lower tube to any anglewithin a given range. As a result, the position of an object (e.g.,microphone) attached to the stand (e.g., upper tube) may be extendedaway from the base 304. Once adjusted, the clutch 340, as a frictionclutch, is able to hold the lower tube 310 at the adjusted angle.

The clutch 340 in some embodiments has the same configuration as theclutch 140 in FIGS. 5 and 6. Accordingly, the clutch 340 comprises afemale section 350 and a male section 360. The female section 350 iscoupled to base 304. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, thefemale section 350 defines a post being receivable in a bore formed inthe base. Alternatively, the female section 350 of the clutch 340 may beintegral with the base 304. The male section 360 is coupled to the lowertube 310. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the male section 360defines a post that is receivable in a bore defined by lower tube 310.The male section 360 of the clutch 340, however, may be integral withthe lower tube 310. It should be understood that in some embodiments ofthe present invention, the male section 360 is coupled to base 304 andthe female section 350 is coupled to the lower tube 310.

In other embodiments, the clutch 340 has the configuration of the clutch240 shown in FIG. 7. As such, the clutch 340 comprises a bottom sectionand a top section. The bottom section is coupled to the base 304, whilethe bottom section is coupled to the lower tube 310. Alternatively, thebottom section of the clutch 340 is coupled to the lower tube 310, whilethe top section of the clutch 340 is coupled to the base 304. The bottomsection defines an L-shaped mount, which includes a flange that extendsupward from the bottom section (see FIG. 7) and which defines a flatsurface that is perpendicular to the flange. Similarly, the top sectiondefines an L-shaped mount that is configured to mate with the L-shapedmount of the bottom section. The L-shaped mount of the top sectioncomprises a flange that extends from the top section and the L-shapedmount defines a flat surface that is perpendicular to the flange (seeFIG. 7). With this particular configuration of the clutch, the L-shapedmount of the bottom section mates with the L-shaped mount of the topsection.

Although not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the stand 302 may also include anattachment clip similar to the clip 132 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Assuch, an object or microphone can be attached to the upper tube of theshaft 302.

It should be understood that the stand in accordance with the presentinvention is not limited to supporting a microphone and that otherelements, for example a tablet computer, sheet music support, apercussion component such a drum or cymbal, or a speaker, may besupported using the novel articulating stand.

It should further be understood to a person of ordinary skill in the artthat different configurations of the stand are possible. For example, insome embodiments, the stand does not include a lower tube. In yet otherembodiments, the clutch may be integrated into the lower tube ratherthan the upper tube. In yet other embodiments of the present invention,the stand may include a plurality of clutches in accordance with thepresent invention so as to provide multiple points of articulation. Forexample, the stand may comprise both the clutch 140 as shown in FIGS. 2Aand 2B and the clutch 340 as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a particulararrangement of parts, features and the like, these are not intended toexhaust all possible arrangements or features, and indeed many othermodifications and variations will be ascertainable to those of skill inthe art.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A stand, comprising: a base; a first tube coupledto the base and extending therefrom, the first tube defining a bore withan opening at a distal end of the first tube opposite the base; a secondtube, a portion of which is received in the bore such that the secondtube and the first tube form a telescoping relationship; and a clutchcoupling a proximal end of the first tube to the base, the clutch beingconfigured to enable pivoting of the first tube relative to the base andto secure the first tube at an adjusted angle relative to the base. 22.The stand of claim 21, wherein the clutch comprises: a female componenthaving opposing flanges; and a male component having a protruding post;wherein the protruding post is coupled between the opposing flanges viaa fastener to facilitate articulation of the male component relative tothe female component.
 23. The stand of claim 22, wherein the femalecomponent of the clutch has a post that is receivable within a bore ofthe base to couple the female component to the base; and the malecomponent of the clutch has a post that is receivable within a bore ofthe first tube at the proximal end of the first tube to couple the malecomponent to the first tube.
 24. The stand of claim 22, wherein thefemale component of the clutch has a post that is receivable within abore of the first tube at the proximal end of the first tube to couplethe female component to the first tube; and the male component of theclutch has a post that is receivable within a bore of the base to couplethe male component to the base.
 25. The stand of claim 22, wherein theclutch includes a stopper to limit an extent of articulation, thestopper having: stop surfaces on a top of each opposing flange; and aradial protrusion disposed at a bottom portion of the protruding post ofthe male component; the radial protrusion being configured to contactthe stop surfaces of the opposing flanges to limit the extent ofarticulation to a maximum angle.
 26. The stand of claim 21, wherein theclutch comprises a first component coupled to the base and a secondcomponent coupled to first tube, each component having an L-shaped mountthat mates with the other.
 27. The stand of claim 26, wherein each ofthe L-shaped mounts of both components comprises a flat surface and aflange extending perpendicular to the flat surface to providecomplementary engagement.
 28. The stand of claim 27, wherein an end ofthe flange of the first component comprises a stop surface, the stopsurface being configured to contact the flat surface of the secondcomponent to limit an extent of articulation.
 29. The stand of claim 27,wherein each flange of the first and second components includes athrough hole configured to receive a fastener for coupling the firstcomponent and second component together.
 30. The stand of claim 26,wherein at least one of the first component of the clutch is integratedwith the first tube or the second component of the clutch is integratedwith the base.
 31. The stand of claim 22, wherein at least one of thefemale component is integrated with the first tube or the male componentis integrated with the base.
 32. The stand of claim 22, wherein at leastone of the female component is integrated with the base or the malecomponent is integrated with the first tube.
 33. The stand of claim 22,wherein the opposing flanges of the female component each include athrough hole; and the protruding post of the male component includes athrough hole, said through hole of the protruding post is configured toalign with the through holes of the opposing flanges to receive thefastener for coupling the female component to the male component. 34.The stand of claim 33, wherein one of the through holes of the opposingflanges is a threaded hole; and the fastener is a threaded fastener thatis configured to engage threads of the threaded hole that is within thediameter of the first tube.
 35. The stand of claim 33, wherein thefastener pulls the opposing flanges toward one another to create aclamping force on the protruding post.
 36. The stand of claim 35,wherein the opposing flanges compress on the protruding post so that anangle of the first tube relative to the base is adjustable, and afteradjustment, friction between the opposing flanges and the protrudingpost maintains the angle of the first tube relative to the base withoutadjusting or tightening the fastener.
 37. The stand of claim 22, whereinthe protruding post has a relief formed therein to facilitatearticulation of the first tube relative to the base.
 38. The stand ofclaim 22, wherein inner surfaces of the opposing flanges and an outersurface of the protruding post comprise a relief pattern configured toinhibit slippage of the first tube relative to the base.
 39. The standof claim 21, further comprising an adjustment collar disposed at thedistal end of the first tube, the adjustment collar being configured tosecure the second tube relative to the first tube with the clutchpositioned inside the first bore of the first tube.